Pleural space

The pleural space (also known as the pleural cavity or intrapleural space) is a potential space located between the two layers of pleura—parietal and visceral—that surround each lung in the thoracic cavity[1][2][3][4][5][6]. This anatomical cavity normally contains a small volume of lubricating serous fluid, which allows the pleural surfaces to slide smoothly against one another during breathing movements and creates surface tension that is important for lung inflation[1][3][4][6]. The pleural space is critically involved in respiratory mechanics but is not a molecule, receptor, protein, or conventional therapeutic target. Pathological conditions involving the pleural space include pleural effusion (fluid buildup) and pneumothorax (air), both of which impair respiratory function[4][5][6]. The pleural space itself does not directly interact with drugs, nor does it play a direct molecular or signaling role; rather, it is a physical anatomical region essential for normal lung function.

Other names

Pleural cavityIntrapleural space